Suggests that academic departments reshape the intellectual climate for chemistry education as one way to ensure the future of chemistry. Current practices in chemistry and possible benefits which may result if the system is modified are examined. These benefits include better public support and understanding of chemistry. (JN)

Presents strategic planning designed to help academic institutions. Describes five key elements: situation analysis; mission statement; objectives; creating strategies; and tactics. Discusses the implementation, benefits, and side-effects of strategic planning. (YP)

Highlights an American Chemical Society (ACS) survey of 103 chemistry departments on their instrumentation needs. The 2-year study affirms that instruments used for chemical research and education are becoming outdated because of their age and changes in technology. The survey also reveals how departments plan to use newly acquired instruments.…

In this article, the authors highlight an issue in science education facing many university and college science departments: hiring faculty who can bring to the department specialized expertise in science education. To begin to address this issue, a collaborative team of tenure-track faculty--all of whom are primarily trained in science and have…

Basic science departments at Johns Hopkins University (Maryland) responded to pressure to provide more service with fewer resources by using administrative restructuring to meet the needs of research faculty and a growing research program. A collective approach to restructuring, involving interdepartmental cooperation and collegiality, was…

Examines programmatic effects of undergraduate chemistry research programs, focusing on internal research funding at Pomona College. The two-phase funding plan is described, accompanied by commentary on the reasoning and philosophy which lie behind these procedures. (JN)

Examines the possible advantages of subject area specialists for elementary science. Discusses four different implementation models: (1) Physical education teacher model; (2) Media center model; (3) Departmentalized model; and (4) School-within-a-school model. (YP)

Described is a physics course for satisfying the junior-year writing requirement. Gives nine assignment examples of the course. Discusses the use of the writing component as a teaching aid in junior level "Electricity and Magnetism" course. (YP)

Investigated is the impact on attitudes of prospective elementary school teachers of pragmatic, success-oriented courses in science as prerequisites for entry into science methods courses. A need for exposing prospective teachers to instructional strategies and experiences which are consistent with teaching practices and curricula employed in a…

A longitudinal study of departmental peer review at the University of Wisconsin examined (1) how teaching, scholarship, institutional service, and community outreach relate to faculty ratings; (2) relationships between academic rank, merit pay, and base salary change and merit performance; and (3) the influence of state and institutional budgeting…